Hi! I'm Chelle. Through Clean Eating and Exercise, I changed my life! I'm a real person, with a real life, I have a family, job, friends, and a passion for food & fitness. I've lost 80+ lbs, and kept them off for 8 years and I've competed in 2 Figure Competitions. Still battling injuries and arthritis, I'm proof YOU can do the impossible! Follow me and I'll show you how to live a life of health, balance, and goal achievement! Oh, and eat GREAT, too! ;-)

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Tuesday, February 28, 2012

This is a fabulous use of chicken you've prepped early in the week... just shred (or chop) 8 oz (about 1 breast) and you're ready to throw this together. Crust doesn't fit in your nutritional needs? No problem! Just eliminate it! Seriously, just spray the deep-dish pie pan and dump in the ingredients. You're good to go ;-) And the sweet potatoes? No room in the diet for maple syrup? Again, just omit it! You'll still have a seriously tasty & spicy sweet potato mash that hits the spot!

This is a fabulous use of chicken you've prepped early in the week... just shred (or chop) 8 oz (about 1 breast) and you're ready to throw this together. Crust doesn't fit in your nutritional needs? No problem! Just eliminate it! Seriously, just spray the deep-dish pie pan and dump in the ingredients. You're good to go ;-) And the sweet potatoes? No room in the diet for maple syrup? Again, just omit it! You'll still have a seriously tasty & spicy sweet potato mash that hits the spot!

This is a fabulous use of chicken you've prepped early in the week... just shred (or chop) 8 oz (about 1 breast) and you're ready to throw this together. Crust doesn't fit in your nutritional needs? No problem! Just eliminate it! Seriously, just spray the deep-dish pie pan and dump in the ingredients. You're good to go ;-) And the sweet potatoes? No room in the diet for maple syrup? Again, just omit it! You'll still have a seriously tasty & spicy sweet potato mash that hits the spot!

Monday, February 27, 2012

On Friday the hubby and I had a few appointments... one of which was a painful check-writing encounter at the local I.R.S. office. Painful. To be (IRS)-debt free (haha, at least until April 17th, lol!) is a wonderful feeling, but wowzer it hurt to write that check! Afterward, we had a quiet weekend. Lots of talking, planning, trouble-shooting, planning, talking... lol. It's crisis-central at our house, but I think we're beginning to get a handle on it - or at least on ourselves. The hubby and I even got some time alone! Woot! Date!

We headed out to Studio Movie Grill. It's our new favorite place - dinner and a movie - and alcohol! LOL! Seriously though, we love it! We went to see Act of Valor. And thought it was fabulous. If you haven't seen it, know that it is not your typical Hollywood movie - it's a blend of real-life soldiers and actors. There are times when the acting is not so great, lol, but the film itself we thought was amazing. There were several action scenes when we looked at each other and whispered, "That's So Cool" with big goofy grins. ;-) We'll definitely be buying a copy when it comes out on DVD.

At the end of the film, they ran a list of names. I was actually gathering my purse and such to leave, and ended up dropping right back down in my seat. I knew one of those names. The recognition brought home to me the truth behind the film - every day, our men and women are in danger, and in a moment, lives can be changed forever.

The rest of the weekend, I did final recipe testing and photography. The deadline for the World Physique Women's magazine is at the end of this week ;-) Each recipe that made the cut for this weekend was a hit (yay!), and though I've only glanced so far, the pics look good. I've got to finish up the written work, then that'll go in! Woohoo! I don't have a date of publication for that one, but it'll be the Spring Edition.

Also completed this weekend was my usual stuff... laundry, housework (blah), Sunday Food Prep. I'm all stocked up and ready for the week. I have one more recipe to hit the final test tonight, and if it's a go, it'll be tomorrow's Champion Nutrition USA Recipe of the Week. If it bombs, I've got a backup, lol ;-)

I do not enjoy housework. That's why we have kids, right?

I'm doing a bit better with the hunger thing. I ate ok (meaning enough fuel) throughout the weekend, had my treat, and today am hungry (so far) when I'm supposed to be. I've decided to focus on foods I enjoy more than the usual - in the hopes that I'll look forward to meals. Salads are high on the list... there's just so many yummy things you can put on a salad ;-) I also picked up a jar of Nuttzo, and am putting that in my oatmeal instead of ground flax - everything is better with (when you're) nuttzo! ;-) hahaha!

This week brings more of the same - rehabbing these injuries and doing my best to prevent further damage (have I mentioned I strongly dislike "taking it easy"?), prepping and planning for the future... and of course... counting down to the cruise! :-D

40 DAYS TO GO!!!!!

Is it just me or is time flying by?

On Friday the hubby and I had a few appointments... one of which was a painful check-writing encounter at the local I.R.S. office. Painful. To be (IRS)-debt free (haha, at least until April 17th, lol!) is a wonderful feeling, but wowzer it hurt to write that check! Afterward, we had a quiet weekend. Lots of talking, planning, trouble-shooting, planning, talking... lol. It's crisis-central at our house, but I think we're beginning to get a handle on it - or at least on ourselves. The hubby and I even got some time alone! Woot! Date!

We headed out to Studio Movie Grill. It's our new favorite place - dinner and a movie - and alcohol! LOL! Seriously though, we love it! We went to see Act of Valor. And thought it was fabulous. If you haven't seen it, know that it is not your typical Hollywood movie - it's a blend of real-life soldiers and actors. There are times when the acting is not so great, lol, but the film itself we thought was amazing. There were several action scenes when we looked at each other and whispered, "That's So Cool" with big goofy grins. ;-) We'll definitely be buying a copy when it comes out on DVD.

At the end of the film, they ran a list of names. I was actually gathering my purse and such to leave, and ended up dropping right back down in my seat. I knew one of those names. The recognition brought home to me the truth behind the film - every day, our men and women are in danger, and in a moment, lives can be changed forever.

The rest of the weekend, I did final recipe testing and photography. The deadline for the World Physique Women's magazine is at the end of this week ;-) Each recipe that made the cut for this weekend was a hit (yay!), and though I've only glanced so far, the pics look good. I've got to finish up the written work, then that'll go in! Woohoo! I don't have a date of publication for that one, but it'll be the Spring Edition.

Also completed this weekend was my usual stuff... laundry, housework (blah), Sunday Food Prep. I'm all stocked up and ready for the week. I have one more recipe to hit the final test tonight, and if it's a go, it'll be tomorrow's Champion Nutrition USA Recipe of the Week. If it bombs, I've got a backup, lol ;-)

I do not enjoy housework. That's why we have kids, right?

I'm doing a bit better with the hunger thing. I ate ok (meaning enough fuel) throughout the weekend, had my treat, and today am hungry (so far) when I'm supposed to be. I've decided to focus on foods I enjoy more than the usual - in the hopes that I'll look forward to meals. Salads are high on the list... there's just so many yummy things you can put on a salad ;-) I also picked up a jar of Nuttzo, and am putting that in my oatmeal instead of ground flax - everything is better with (when you're) nuttzo! ;-) hahaha!

This week brings more of the same - rehabbing these injuries and doing my best to prevent further damage (have I mentioned I strongly dislike "taking it easy"?), prepping and planning for the future... and of course... counting down to the cruise! :-D

40 DAYS TO GO!!!!!

Is it just me or is time flying by?

On Friday the hubby and I had a few appointments... one of which was a painful check-writing encounter at the local I.R.S. office. Painful. To be (IRS)-debt free (haha, at least until April 17th, lol!) is a wonderful feeling, but wowzer it hurt to write that check! Afterward, we had a quiet weekend. Lots of talking, planning, trouble-shooting, planning, talking... lol. It's crisis-central at our house, but I think we're beginning to get a handle on it - or at least on ourselves. The hubby and I even got some time alone! Woot! Date!

We headed out to Studio Movie Grill. It's our new favorite place - dinner and a movie - and alcohol! LOL! Seriously though, we love it! We went to see Act of Valor. And thought it was fabulous. If you haven't seen it, know that it is not your typical Hollywood movie - it's a blend of real-life soldiers and actors. There are times when the acting is not so great, lol, but the film itself we thought was amazing. There were several action scenes when we looked at each other and whispered, "That's So Cool" with big goofy grins. ;-) We'll definitely be buying a copy when it comes out on DVD.

At the end of the film, they ran a list of names. I was actually gathering my purse and such to leave, and ended up dropping right back down in my seat. I knew one of those names. The recognition brought home to me the truth behind the film - every day, our men and women are in danger, and in a moment, lives can be changed forever.

The rest of the weekend, I did final recipe testing and photography. The deadline for the World Physique Women's magazine is at the end of this week ;-) Each recipe that made the cut for this weekend was a hit (yay!), and though I've only glanced so far, the pics look good. I've got to finish up the written work, then that'll go in! Woohoo! I don't have a date of publication for that one, but it'll be the Spring Edition.

Also completed this weekend was my usual stuff... laundry, housework (blah), Sunday Food Prep. I'm all stocked up and ready for the week. I have one more recipe to hit the final test tonight, and if it's a go, it'll be tomorrow's Champion Nutrition USA Recipe of the Week. If it bombs, I've got a backup, lol ;-)

I do not enjoy housework. That's why we have kids, right?

I'm doing a bit better with the hunger thing. I ate ok (meaning enough fuel) throughout the weekend, had my treat, and today am hungry (so far) when I'm supposed to be. I've decided to focus on foods I enjoy more than the usual - in the hopes that I'll look forward to meals. Salads are high on the list... there's just so many yummy things you can put on a salad ;-) I also picked up a jar of Nuttzo, and am putting that in my oatmeal instead of ground flax - everything is better with (when you're) nuttzo! ;-) hahaha!

This week brings more of the same - rehabbing these injuries and doing my best to prevent further damage (have I mentioned I strongly dislike "taking it easy"?), prepping and planning for the future... and of course... counting down to the cruise! :-D

Thursday, February 23, 2012

Hahahaha!!! I came across this one in the Pinterest-Time-Suck and can just so completely relate! ROFL! Egads, that looks like my life feels right now!! Oh, I needed that laugh! I can't wait for the hubby to see it! Ha!!

So remember when I said - knock on wood, I managed to do a TBC class (Total Body Conditioning) and a cardio session without injuring myself? I didn't knock fast enough. Or loud enough. Or something. Darn You, Universe!!!! Leave me ALONE!!!!! I freakin' pulled something in my inner thigh / quad. DRAT!!!!! I thought yesterday I was just brutally sore but today I know better. I think I'm being punked by the Universe. This is not cool.

Anyway, so tonight I will attempt to do Tabitha's class - she's got some super fun stuff planned and I'm soooo excited!!! :-D Wooot! Tomorrow is shaping up to be a logistics nightmare - hopefully we'll get it all done. Cross your fingers for me!

Hahahaha!!! I came across this one in the Pinterest-Time-Suck and can just so completely relate! ROFL! Egads, that looks like my life feels right now!! Oh, I needed that laugh! I can't wait for the hubby to see it! Ha!!

So remember when I said - knock on wood, I managed to do a TBC class (Total Body Conditioning) and a cardio session without injuring myself? I didn't knock fast enough. Or loud enough. Or something. Darn You, Universe!!!! Leave me ALONE!!!!! I freakin' pulled something in my inner thigh / quad. DRAT!!!!! I thought yesterday I was just brutally sore but today I know better. I think I'm being punked by the Universe. This is not cool.

Anyway, so tonight I will attempt to do Tabitha's class - she's got some super fun stuff planned and I'm soooo excited!!! :-D Wooot! Tomorrow is shaping up to be a logistics nightmare - hopefully we'll get it all done. Cross your fingers for me!

Hahahaha!!! I came across this one in the Pinterest-Time-Suck and can just so completely relate! ROFL! Egads, that looks like my life feels right now!! Oh, I needed that laugh! I can't wait for the hubby to see it! Ha!!

So remember when I said - knock on wood, I managed to do a TBC class (Total Body Conditioning) and a cardio session without injuring myself? I didn't knock fast enough. Or loud enough. Or something. Darn You, Universe!!!! Leave me ALONE!!!!! I freakin' pulled something in my inner thigh / quad. DRAT!!!!! I thought yesterday I was just brutally sore but today I know better. I think I'm being punked by the Universe. This is not cool.

Anyway, so tonight I will attempt to do Tabitha's class - she's got some super fun stuff planned and I'm soooo excited!!! :-D Wooot! Tomorrow is shaping up to be a logistics nightmare - hopefully we'll get it all done. Cross your fingers for me!

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Today's cooleris updated, along with the Recent Coolers page. If you're looking for ideas on how to eat clean every day, those pages can be great resources for you. Each day I post a photo of the contents of my cooler, then my meals. Check it out ;-)

I'll be really honest here and tell you that I've been struggling to eat. I have my food, it's all clean and ready to go, but I have ZERO appetite. Ya know how most folks stress-eat? I stress-starve. I lose my hunger, the thought of food makes me nauseous. I've been forcing myself to eat over the last 10 days because I know my health is crucial, but it really really sucks to force yourself to eat. Blek. But.... I'm making progress! Lunchtime rolled around today and as I unpacked my cooler, I realized I was actually hungry! Woot!

And look! Victory!!! I cleaned my plate ;-)

In other news... 45 days until the CRUISE!!
WOOOOOOOOOOHOOOO! Happy dance going down right here, right now. I'm goin' on a boat. I'm goin' on a cruise. Woot woot! Hehehehe!

Ahhhhhh!

We are so very excited! Check out my whiteboard on my office wall... See my countdown? Haha! I'm no artist, but I sure love looking at that number going down! ;-) Yes - I am a dork. I'm ok with that.

Today's cooleris updated, along with the Recent Coolers page. If you're looking for ideas on how to eat clean every day, those pages can be great resources for you. Each day I post a photo of the contents of my cooler, then my meals. Check it out ;-)

I'll be really honest here and tell you that I've been struggling to eat. I have my food, it's all clean and ready to go, but I have ZERO appetite. Ya know how most folks stress-eat? I stress-starve. I lose my hunger, the thought of food makes me nauseous. I've been forcing myself to eat over the last 10 days because I know my health is crucial, but it really really sucks to force yourself to eat. Blek. But.... I'm making progress! Lunchtime rolled around today and as I unpacked my cooler, I realized I was actually hungry! Woot!

And look! Victory!!! I cleaned my plate ;-)

In other news... 45 days until the CRUISE!!
WOOOOOOOOOOHOOOO! Happy dance going down right here, right now. I'm goin' on a boat. I'm goin' on a cruise. Woot woot! Hehehehe!

Ahhhhhh!

We are so very excited! Check out my whiteboard on my office wall... See my countdown? Haha! I'm no artist, but I sure love looking at that number going down! ;-) Yes - I am a dork. I'm ok with that.

Today's cooleris updated, along with the Recent Coolers page. If you're looking for ideas on how to eat clean every day, those pages can be great resources for you. Each day I post a photo of the contents of my cooler, then my meals. Check it out ;-)

I'll be really honest here and tell you that I've been struggling to eat. I have my food, it's all clean and ready to go, but I have ZERO appetite. Ya know how most folks stress-eat? I stress-starve. I lose my hunger, the thought of food makes me nauseous. I've been forcing myself to eat over the last 10 days because I know my health is crucial, but it really really sucks to force yourself to eat. Blek. But.... I'm making progress! Lunchtime rolled around today and as I unpacked my cooler, I realized I was actually hungry! Woot!

And look! Victory!!! I cleaned my plate ;-)

In other news... 45 days until the CRUISE!!
WOOOOOOOOOOHOOOO! Happy dance going down right here, right now. I'm goin' on a boat. I'm goin' on a cruise. Woot woot! Hehehehe!

Ahhhhhh!

We are so very excited! Check out my whiteboard on my office wall... See my countdown? Haha! I'm no artist, but I sure love looking at that number going down! ;-) Yes - I am a dork. I'm ok with that.

Tuesday, February 21, 2012

More easy & portable make-ahead food that's training diet friendly! Woot! This is an awesome, cheesy, tasty little gem that can even be made ahead and frozen for when you need it! The original recipe is from a book I came across, and I tweaked it a skosh ;-) Super yummy, these come together in moments and travel well - just heat and serve!

MAKE-AHEAD NOTES: After step 2, place loaves on cookie sheet and freeze until firm. Wrap each in freezer wrap or heavy foil. Label and freeze up to 3 months. To serve, unwrap desired number of loaves and refer to step 3, baking 60 minutes instead of 45.

More easy & portable make-ahead food that's training diet friendly! Woot! This is an awesome, cheesy, tasty little gem that can even be made ahead and frozen for when you need it! The original recipe is from a book I came across, and I tweaked it a skosh ;-) Super yummy, these come together in moments and travel well - just heat and serve!

MAKE-AHEAD NOTES: After step 2, place loaves on cookie sheet and freeze until firm. Wrap each in freezer wrap or heavy foil. Label and freeze up to 3 months. To serve, unwrap desired number of loaves and refer to step 3, baking 60 minutes instead of 45.

More easy & portable make-ahead food that's training diet friendly! Woot! This is an awesome, cheesy, tasty little gem that can even be made ahead and frozen for when you need it! The original recipe is from a book I came across, and I tweaked it a skosh ;-) Super yummy, these come together in moments and travel well - just heat and serve!

MAKE-AHEAD NOTES: After step 2, place loaves on cookie sheet and freeze until firm. Wrap each in freezer wrap or heavy foil. Label and freeze up to 3 months. To serve, unwrap desired number of loaves and refer to step 3, baking 60 minutes instead of 45.

Monday, February 20, 2012

How did we get to Monday already? Oy! It was an insane weekend with too much to do, and not enough time to do it in. Sunday Food Prep did happen, of course, lol. I went super-simple this week. I bulk cooked jasmine rice, chicken (as usual), chicken stir-fry, chicken for sandwich meat, my veggies (steamer bags), my oatmeal baggies... all the usual stuff. Dinner is in the crockpot - shredded salsa pork, so it'll be ready when I get home from Total Body Conditioning class tonight.

I cannot begin to tell you how much I'm looking forward to class. My sciatica is gone, my shoulder is what it is, and I am so very ready to work. I started to get ready for cardio this morning and thought... nope - not gonna jinx it. Lol! I want to get in a solid muscle class then I'll start up the cardio again. I know, I'm a goob, but last week I started with cardio and ended up benched all week. Here's hoping for a different week (in so many ways!).

I did get to experiment a bit in the kitchen and have a fabulous recipe for ya'll tomorrow, hopefully I can get pics of it tonight before it disappears. It was certainly a hit!

Today being a holiday is really throwing a wrench in my works... I don't have the day off (which should be a crime, in my humble opinion lol!), but I can't reach any of the people I was supposed to reach today because THEY all have the day off. Argh! Then the one I could reach, is ready for me, but I can't get over there today because, hello, I'm working today. I've decided that organizations need to consult me before closing for "holidays". Haha. Yeah, I don't think that one's gonna float.

Happy Monday.

How did we get to Monday already? Oy! It was an insane weekend with too much to do, and not enough time to do it in. Sunday Food Prep did happen, of course, lol. I went super-simple this week. I bulk cooked jasmine rice, chicken (as usual), chicken stir-fry, chicken for sandwich meat, my veggies (steamer bags), my oatmeal baggies... all the usual stuff. Dinner is in the crockpot - shredded salsa pork, so it'll be ready when I get home from Total Body Conditioning class tonight.

I cannot begin to tell you how much I'm looking forward to class. My sciatica is gone, my shoulder is what it is, and I am so very ready to work. I started to get ready for cardio this morning and thought... nope - not gonna jinx it. Lol! I want to get in a solid muscle class then I'll start up the cardio again. I know, I'm a goob, but last week I started with cardio and ended up benched all week. Here's hoping for a different week (in so many ways!).

I did get to experiment a bit in the kitchen and have a fabulous recipe for ya'll tomorrow, hopefully I can get pics of it tonight before it disappears. It was certainly a hit!

Today being a holiday is really throwing a wrench in my works... I don't have the day off (which should be a crime, in my humble opinion lol!), but I can't reach any of the people I was supposed to reach today because THEY all have the day off. Argh! Then the one I could reach, is ready for me, but I can't get over there today because, hello, I'm working today. I've decided that organizations need to consult me before closing for "holidays". Haha. Yeah, I don't think that one's gonna float.

Happy Monday.

How did we get to Monday already? Oy! It was an insane weekend with too much to do, and not enough time to do it in. Sunday Food Prep did happen, of course, lol. I went super-simple this week. I bulk cooked jasmine rice, chicken (as usual), chicken stir-fry, chicken for sandwich meat, my veggies (steamer bags), my oatmeal baggies... all the usual stuff. Dinner is in the crockpot - shredded salsa pork, so it'll be ready when I get home from Total Body Conditioning class tonight.

I cannot begin to tell you how much I'm looking forward to class. My sciatica is gone, my shoulder is what it is, and I am so very ready to work. I started to get ready for cardio this morning and thought... nope - not gonna jinx it. Lol! I want to get in a solid muscle class then I'll start up the cardio again. I know, I'm a goob, but last week I started with cardio and ended up benched all week. Here's hoping for a different week (in so many ways!).

I did get to experiment a bit in the kitchen and have a fabulous recipe for ya'll tomorrow, hopefully I can get pics of it tonight before it disappears. It was certainly a hit!

Today being a holiday is really throwing a wrench in my works... I don't have the day off (which should be a crime, in my humble opinion lol!), but I can't reach any of the people I was supposed to reach today because THEY all have the day off. Argh! Then the one I could reach, is ready for me, but I can't get over there today because, hello, I'm working today. I've decided that organizations need to consult me before closing for "holidays". Haha. Yeah, I don't think that one's gonna float.

Friday, February 17, 2012

I understand now. Truly. You are not punishing me with all these injuries. You are protecting me. Yes, I truly understand. Had I been at full physical strength when recent events in my personal life occurred, several people would be meeting their Maker, and I would be either rotting in a cell or a fugitive. See? I really do understand now. So, Oh-Great-Universe, here's the thing.... if I promise to not kill or maim anyone, can I have my body back now? Please???

I understand now. Truly. You are not punishing me with all these injuries. You are protecting me. Yes, I truly understand. Had I been at full physical strength when recent events in my personal life occurred, several people would be meeting their Maker, and I would be either rotting in a cell or a fugitive. See? I really do understand now. So, Oh-Great-Universe, here's the thing.... if I promise to not kill or maim anyone, can I have my body back now? Please???

I understand now. Truly. You are not punishing me with all these injuries. You are protecting me. Yes, I truly understand. Had I been at full physical strength when recent events in my personal life occurred, several people would be meeting their Maker, and I would be either rotting in a cell or a fugitive. See? I really do understand now. So, Oh-Great-Universe, here's the thing.... if I promise to not kill or maim anyone, can I have my body back now? Please???

C'mon, enough is enough already! Last night I was excited that my sciatica was feeling better - the heat therapy is helping, and I was hoping to get into the gym for cardio this morning... my shoulder was feeling immensely better, was hoping for a good prognosis today at the doc...then I woke up. My neck is pinched. Are you kidding me???? Is this a joke??? WTH??? I am now one big ball of icy-hot with a heat pad alternating between my hips and my neck. Oh, and the shoulder? Screaming! Seriously??? I mean, really... SERIOUSLY???? What, was I UFC fighting in my sleep? What IS this???

Open Letter to The Universe...
To Whom It May Concern,
PLEASE tell me what it is you want me to learn so we can MOVE ON!
Sincerely,
Chelle

In other news, and I'm choosing to see this as an "Wow! Cool!" moment, rather than the slap in the face I'm sure the universe intended... I got this in yesterday's mail...

I opened it up to this....

See that list of tiny print down the side? I'm there! Twice! Winner of 4th place in Novice Short Figure and 4th place in 35+ Figure (Jr Masters). Woot! A fabulous reminder of anincredible day that I will be forever grateful for. And I've got the hardware to prove it ;-)

Today is lining up to be another whirlwind. This week I've had a major trade-show and all the chaos and running back and forth to Mesa, I've had to organize and attend 2 doctor's appointments, have two more today plus another appointment also today, I've had my sciatica flare, my knee flare, I've been benched from the gym, and now of course, the darn neck. Though I can't share the details, our family is dealing with a major crisis and I can tell you truly, this has been the worst week of my life. Not an exaggeration. Truly. And since the universe appears to be picking on me, whatever could go wrong this week, DID. Cars, bank cards, internet, toner cartridges (I hate that powder!), crossed wires & skype sessions. Oh, and toss Craigslist in there, since it's one of my current banes of existence.

Today, I'm inhaling coffee and doing my craigslist work before I pack up my cooler and head out to get gas (again), drag 4 people into the meeting from hell, hit the pharmacy, my shoulder appointment, my daughter's doctor appointment, and (please cross your fingers for me) hopefully a coffee/caramel break with Tabitha. Please, please, please let me make that coffee appointment!

Tabitha keeps sending me text messages with one word... "Breathe". How does she always know just when to send? I'm having to remind myself to do that. I keep catching myself holding my breath (yeah, like that'll help, lol). Knitting is helping. I'm not actually making anything - I only know one stitch, lol, so I just keep knitting, tying in a new skein when I run out. Haha. My dog though, the boxer, seems to associate my knitting with my need for comfort - everytime I pull it out, she jumps up beside me (all 70 lbs of her) and lays her head on my lap... on my knitting. ROFL. For the record, it's very difficult to knit when a 70 lb blob is laying across your yarn. Hahaha! Last night I gave up on the knitting (she wouldn't budge) and lost myself in Pinterest for several hours. Ha! That's a time-suck! But so fun!

In the good news category, Bethany's post-op was yesterday... clean bill of health! Irony of all ironies, when the lab opened up her gallbladder - no stones! ??? There were no gallstones! BUT, they classified it as a non-functioning gallbladder - the neck, as the doc told us post-surgery, was so tiny that the bile couldn't be released - this was what caused her ill-health. We don't know what those "stones" were in the ultrasound that led us to surgery, but we are incredibly grateful! Bethany is full-force herself again - full of energy and life. It's wonderful!

So... there's my life in a nutshell ;-) It's Friday. May the weekend be better than the week! Please!!!!

I Give!!! Uncle! Make it STOP!!!!!!!!!!!!

C'mon, enough is enough already! Last night I was excited that my sciatica was feeling better - the heat therapy is helping, and I was hoping to get into the gym for cardio this morning... my shoulder was feeling immensely better, was hoping for a good prognosis today at the doc...then I woke up. My neck is pinched. Are you kidding me???? Is this a joke??? WTH??? I am now one big ball of icy-hot with a heat pad alternating between my hips and my neck. Oh, and the shoulder? Screaming! Seriously??? I mean, really... SERIOUSLY???? What, was I UFC fighting in my sleep? What IS this???

Open Letter to The Universe...
To Whom It May Concern,
PLEASE tell me what it is you want me to learn so we can MOVE ON!
Sincerely,
Chelle

In other news, and I'm choosing to see this as an "Wow! Cool!" moment, rather than the slap in the face I'm sure the universe intended... I got this in yesterday's mail...

I opened it up to this....

See that list of tiny print down the side? I'm there! Twice! Winner of 4th place in Novice Short Figure and 4th place in 35+ Figure (Jr Masters). Woot! A fabulous reminder of anincredible day that I will be forever grateful for. And I've got the hardware to prove it ;-)

Today is lining up to be another whirlwind. This week I've had a major trade-show and all the chaos and running back and forth to Mesa, I've had to organize and attend 2 doctor's appointments, have two more today plus another appointment also today, I've had my sciatica flare, my knee flare, I've been benched from the gym, and now of course, the darn neck. Though I can't share the details, our family is dealing with a major crisis and I can tell you truly, this has been the worst week of my life. Not an exaggeration. Truly. And since the universe appears to be picking on me, whatever could go wrong this week, DID. Cars, bank cards, internet, toner cartridges (I hate that powder!), crossed wires & skype sessions. Oh, and toss Craigslist in there, since it's one of my current banes of existence.

Today, I'm inhaling coffee and doing my craigslist work before I pack up my cooler and head out to get gas (again), drag 4 people into the meeting from hell, hit the pharmacy, my shoulder appointment, my daughter's doctor appointment, and (please cross your fingers for me) hopefully a coffee/caramel break with Tabitha. Please, please, please let me make that coffee appointment!

Tabitha keeps sending me text messages with one word... "Breathe". How does she always know just when to send? I'm having to remind myself to do that. I keep catching myself holding my breath (yeah, like that'll help, lol). Knitting is helping. I'm not actually making anything - I only know one stitch, lol, so I just keep knitting, tying in a new skein when I run out. Haha. My dog though, the boxer, seems to associate my knitting with my need for comfort - everytime I pull it out, she jumps up beside me (all 70 lbs of her) and lays her head on my lap... on my knitting. ROFL. For the record, it's very difficult to knit when a 70 lb blob is laying across your yarn. Hahaha! Last night I gave up on the knitting (she wouldn't budge) and lost myself in Pinterest for several hours. Ha! That's a time-suck! But so fun!

In the good news category, Bethany's post-op was yesterday... clean bill of health! Irony of all ironies, when the lab opened up her gallbladder - no stones! ??? There were no gallstones! BUT, they classified it as a non-functioning gallbladder - the neck, as the doc told us post-surgery, was so tiny that the bile couldn't be released - this was what caused her ill-health. We don't know what those "stones" were in the ultrasound that led us to surgery, but we are incredibly grateful! Bethany is full-force herself again - full of energy and life. It's wonderful!

So... there's my life in a nutshell ;-) It's Friday. May the weekend be better than the week! Please!!!!

I Give!!! Uncle! Make it STOP!!!!!!!!!!!!

C'mon, enough is enough already! Last night I was excited that my sciatica was feeling better - the heat therapy is helping, and I was hoping to get into the gym for cardio this morning... my shoulder was feeling immensely better, was hoping for a good prognosis today at the doc...then I woke up. My neck is pinched. Are you kidding me???? Is this a joke??? WTH??? I am now one big ball of icy-hot with a heat pad alternating between my hips and my neck. Oh, and the shoulder? Screaming! Seriously??? I mean, really... SERIOUSLY???? What, was I UFC fighting in my sleep? What IS this???

Open Letter to The Universe...
To Whom It May Concern,
PLEASE tell me what it is you want me to learn so we can MOVE ON!
Sincerely,
Chelle

In other news, and I'm choosing to see this as an "Wow! Cool!" moment, rather than the slap in the face I'm sure the universe intended... I got this in yesterday's mail...

I opened it up to this....

See that list of tiny print down the side? I'm there! Twice! Winner of 4th place in Novice Short Figure and 4th place in 35+ Figure (Jr Masters). Woot! A fabulous reminder of anincredible day that I will be forever grateful for. And I've got the hardware to prove it ;-)

Today is lining up to be another whirlwind. This week I've had a major trade-show and all the chaos and running back and forth to Mesa, I've had to organize and attend 2 doctor's appointments, have two more today plus another appointment also today, I've had my sciatica flare, my knee flare, I've been benched from the gym, and now of course, the darn neck. Though I can't share the details, our family is dealing with a major crisis and I can tell you truly, this has been the worst week of my life. Not an exaggeration. Truly. And since the universe appears to be picking on me, whatever could go wrong this week, DID. Cars, bank cards, internet, toner cartridges (I hate that powder!), crossed wires & skype sessions. Oh, and toss Craigslist in there, since it's one of my current banes of existence.

Today, I'm inhaling coffee and doing my craigslist work before I pack up my cooler and head out to get gas (again), drag 4 people into the meeting from hell, hit the pharmacy, my shoulder appointment, my daughter's doctor appointment, and (please cross your fingers for me) hopefully a coffee/caramel break with Tabitha. Please, please, please let me make that coffee appointment!

Tabitha keeps sending me text messages with one word... "Breathe". How does she always know just when to send? I'm having to remind myself to do that. I keep catching myself holding my breath (yeah, like that'll help, lol). Knitting is helping. I'm not actually making anything - I only know one stitch, lol, so I just keep knitting, tying in a new skein when I run out. Haha. My dog though, the boxer, seems to associate my knitting with my need for comfort - everytime I pull it out, she jumps up beside me (all 70 lbs of her) and lays her head on my lap... on my knitting. ROFL. For the record, it's very difficult to knit when a 70 lb blob is laying across your yarn. Hahaha! Last night I gave up on the knitting (she wouldn't budge) and lost myself in Pinterest for several hours. Ha! That's a time-suck! But so fun!

In the good news category, Bethany's post-op was yesterday... clean bill of health! Irony of all ironies, when the lab opened up her gallbladder - no stones! ??? There were no gallstones! BUT, they classified it as a non-functioning gallbladder - the neck, as the doc told us post-surgery, was so tiny that the bile couldn't be released - this was what caused her ill-health. We don't know what those "stones" were in the ultrasound that led us to surgery, but we are incredibly grateful! Bethany is full-force herself again - full of energy and life. It's wonderful!

So... there's my life in a nutshell ;-) It's Friday. May the weekend be better than the week! Please!!!!

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Oy! I know I haven't been posting much lately. There are multiple reasons, but I'm here now. And that's what matters, right? Lol.

This week marks 8 weeks until the cruise, and the beginning of my 5x/week cardio plan... best laid plans most assuredly have gone awry. I woke early Monday, hit the gym, got in my 30 minutes on the elliptical - simple steady state to a jammin' playlist, got off, stretched, and walked out to my car when my sciatic nerve pinched. Uh oh. Back home, I spent a few extra minutes under the hot water, but no joy... a couple hours later as I lifted some boxes at work - BAM! Full sciatic pinch. Dagnabbit! Ice and Icy-Hot for 48 hours, then this morning I switched to heat - it's better, not better enough that I can do cardio ($%#@!) but I can walk upright.

Seriously. The universe is trying to teach me something, I'm sure, but if it could be just a bit clearer that would be helpful.

My shoulder is doing better - the shot seems to have helped. I still can't use that arm, but the gnawing pain every moment of every day is greatly diminished. I go back tomorrow. We'll see what the expert says.

The Recipe For Fitness Case Study has wrapped. The gals did incredible. Right through the holidays, and forward - they each succeeded in ways that awe me. You can check them out here and I encourage you to read each of their transformations and journal posts. These are truly amazing women and I feel honored to have been part of their journeys. http://recipeforfitness.com/transformation.html

...Can go awry. Seriously horribly awry.

Oy! I know I haven't been posting much lately. There are multiple reasons, but I'm here now. And that's what matters, right? Lol.

This week marks 8 weeks until the cruise, and the beginning of my 5x/week cardio plan... best laid plans most assuredly have gone awry. I woke early Monday, hit the gym, got in my 30 minutes on the elliptical - simple steady state to a jammin' playlist, got off, stretched, and walked out to my car when my sciatic nerve pinched. Uh oh. Back home, I spent a few extra minutes under the hot water, but no joy... a couple hours later as I lifted some boxes at work - BAM! Full sciatic pinch. Dagnabbit! Ice and Icy-Hot for 48 hours, then this morning I switched to heat - it's better, not better enough that I can do cardio ($%#@!) but I can walk upright.

Seriously. The universe is trying to teach me something, I'm sure, but if it could be just a bit clearer that would be helpful.

My shoulder is doing better - the shot seems to have helped. I still can't use that arm, but the gnawing pain every moment of every day is greatly diminished. I go back tomorrow. We'll see what the expert says.

The Recipe For Fitness Case Study has wrapped. The gals did incredible. Right through the holidays, and forward - they each succeeded in ways that awe me. You can check them out here and I encourage you to read each of their transformations and journal posts. These are truly amazing women and I feel honored to have been part of their journeys. http://recipeforfitness.com/transformation.html

...Can go awry. Seriously horribly awry.

Oy! I know I haven't been posting much lately. There are multiple reasons, but I'm here now. And that's what matters, right? Lol.

This week marks 8 weeks until the cruise, and the beginning of my 5x/week cardio plan... best laid plans most assuredly have gone awry. I woke early Monday, hit the gym, got in my 30 minutes on the elliptical - simple steady state to a jammin' playlist, got off, stretched, and walked out to my car when my sciatic nerve pinched. Uh oh. Back home, I spent a few extra minutes under the hot water, but no joy... a couple hours later as I lifted some boxes at work - BAM! Full sciatic pinch. Dagnabbit! Ice and Icy-Hot for 48 hours, then this morning I switched to heat - it's better, not better enough that I can do cardio ($%#@!) but I can walk upright.

Seriously. The universe is trying to teach me something, I'm sure, but if it could be just a bit clearer that would be helpful.

My shoulder is doing better - the shot seems to have helped. I still can't use that arm, but the gnawing pain every moment of every day is greatly diminished. I go back tomorrow. We'll see what the expert says.

The Recipe For Fitness Case Study has wrapped. The gals did incredible. Right through the holidays, and forward - they each succeeded in ways that awe me. You can check them out here and I encourage you to read each of their transformations and journal posts. These are truly amazing women and I feel honored to have been part of their journeys. http://recipeforfitness.com/transformation.html

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

So you've made all your chicken for the week... now what do you do with it? How do you make it taste good? How about a taco? This is a super-easy taco shell you can whip up in just minutes! Fill it with whatever you like! I used chicken from my Sunday Food Prep, shredded cabbage, salsa and plain greek yogurt.

DIRECTIONS:
In a small bowl, beat egg with a fork. Add corn meal and Mrs Dash and mix until well blended.
Heat skillet over medium-high heat. Spray with cooking spray.
Pour half the mixture into the center of the skillet, spreading it out into a large circle. Bake just like a crepe or pancake, then flip and continue cooking until done. Remove to plate, and cook the second one.
Fill with your choice of fillings... shredded lettuce, spinach, shredded cabbage, chicken, pork, beef, turkey... whatever!
Top with Salsa and Greek yogurt if desired.

So you've made all your chicken for the week... now what do you do with it? How do you make it taste good? How about a taco? This is a super-easy taco shell you can whip up in just minutes! Fill it with whatever you like! I used chicken from my Sunday Food Prep, shredded cabbage, salsa and plain greek yogurt.

DIRECTIONS:
In a small bowl, beat egg with a fork. Add corn meal and Mrs Dash and mix until well blended.
Heat skillet over medium-high heat. Spray with cooking spray.
Pour half the mixture into the center of the skillet, spreading it out into a large circle. Bake just like a crepe or pancake, then flip and continue cooking until done. Remove to plate, and cook the second one.
Fill with your choice of fillings... shredded lettuce, spinach, shredded cabbage, chicken, pork, beef, turkey... whatever!
Top with Salsa and Greek yogurt if desired.

So you've made all your chicken for the week... now what do you do with it? How do you make it taste good? How about a taco? This is a super-easy taco shell you can whip up in just minutes! Fill it with whatever you like! I used chicken from my Sunday Food Prep, shredded cabbage, salsa and plain greek yogurt.

DIRECTIONS:
In a small bowl, beat egg with a fork. Add corn meal and Mrs Dash and mix until well blended.
Heat skillet over medium-high heat. Spray with cooking spray.
Pour half the mixture into the center of the skillet, spreading it out into a large circle. Bake just like a crepe or pancake, then flip and continue cooking until done. Remove to plate, and cook the second one.
Fill with your choice of fillings... shredded lettuce, spinach, shredded cabbage, chicken, pork, beef, turkey... whatever!
Top with Salsa and Greek yogurt if desired.

Thursday, February 9, 2012

Counting down!! 58 Days until we set sail... which means 57 days until we leave ;-) Time to start making the tweaks. If you follow my daily coolers, you might notice some subtle changes to their contents. The foods are pretty much the same, but portions and proportions are undergoing an adjustment. I'm increasing my fat, and reducing my carbs, and switching them up & when I have them. Since the figure competition, I've been in maintenance mode, but with vacation headed my way I'm going to do everything I can to be ready for it.

Shoulder aside, my food is one thing I have 100% control over, and I'm going to use that to my advantage ;-)

What kind of dietary tweaks am I making? You'll see less greek yogurt (boo!), and more protein pudding (yay!). Less granola, more veggies. Less fruit, more veggies. About the same protein, maybe smaller portions. Beginning next week, no evening starchy carb unless it's following exercise/workout. My fats are also changing, typically I put 2 Tbsp ground flax in my oatmeal - that's now 1 Tbsp, with more fat throughout the day. Minor changes make big differences. I doubt very much I'll need to reduce my calories, but will monitor my progress and do it if I need to.

Today is the first day I've swapped out my beloved greek yogurt for protein pudding - I had thought it would be a wrench - I really, really love greek yogurt, lol! But I had forgotten how much I love my protein pudding! Ha! Yum!

Protein pudding is easy to make, but the results will depend on your brand of protein powder. You might remember during my show prep when I tested a variety of powders in the Protein Pudding Taste-Off. I later tested other brands, including Champion. While none resulted in the thick creamy pudding the Beverly powder does, the Champion was by far the best runner up - creating a thick fudgy mixture that will hit any chocolate craving ;-) It's like licking fudge sauce from a spoon. Seriously! With whatever protein powder you use, the trick is to only add liquid until your mixture turns thick, then chill it several hours. However, I must point out something... if you do not like the way your protein powder tastes, you will not like it in a protein powder pudding. Lol. (and really, if you don't like the way your powder tastes, get a new one! Life's too short to eat sucky food!)

If you're using the Beverly International UMP, this is my recipe, with any other powder, remember to add only enough liquid to thicken it, then blend well and chill.

Blend well (I use a Magic Bullet) until smooth. Pour into container and chill several hours.

If you're not already following my daily cooler, you might check it out. I find, in my experience, that seeing helps me understand. The photos, along with descriptions can help show you what clean eating looks like. You can find my daily pictures here: http://recipeforfitness.com/todays_cooler.html

Counting down!! 58 Days until we set sail... which means 57 days until we leave ;-) Time to start making the tweaks. If you follow my daily coolers, you might notice some subtle changes to their contents. The foods are pretty much the same, but portions and proportions are undergoing an adjustment. I'm increasing my fat, and reducing my carbs, and switching them up & when I have them. Since the figure competition, I've been in maintenance mode, but with vacation headed my way I'm going to do everything I can to be ready for it.

Shoulder aside, my food is one thing I have 100% control over, and I'm going to use that to my advantage ;-)

What kind of dietary tweaks am I making? You'll see less greek yogurt (boo!), and more protein pudding (yay!). Less granola, more veggies. Less fruit, more veggies. About the same protein, maybe smaller portions. Beginning next week, no evening starchy carb unless it's following exercise/workout. My fats are also changing, typically I put 2 Tbsp ground flax in my oatmeal - that's now 1 Tbsp, with more fat throughout the day. Minor changes make big differences. I doubt very much I'll need to reduce my calories, but will monitor my progress and do it if I need to.

Today is the first day I've swapped out my beloved greek yogurt for protein pudding - I had thought it would be a wrench - I really, really love greek yogurt, lol! But I had forgotten how much I love my protein pudding! Ha! Yum!

Protein pudding is easy to make, but the results will depend on your brand of protein powder. You might remember during my show prep when I tested a variety of powders in the Protein Pudding Taste-Off. I later tested other brands, including Champion. While none resulted in the thick creamy pudding the Beverly powder does, the Champion was by far the best runner up - creating a thick fudgy mixture that will hit any chocolate craving ;-) It's like licking fudge sauce from a spoon. Seriously! With whatever protein powder you use, the trick is to only add liquid until your mixture turns thick, then chill it several hours. However, I must point out something... if you do not like the way your protein powder tastes, you will not like it in a protein powder pudding. Lol. (and really, if you don't like the way your powder tastes, get a new one! Life's too short to eat sucky food!)

If you're using the Beverly International UMP, this is my recipe, with any other powder, remember to add only enough liquid to thicken it, then blend well and chill.

Blend well (I use a Magic Bullet) until smooth. Pour into container and chill several hours.

If you're not already following my daily cooler, you might check it out. I find, in my experience, that seeing helps me understand. The photos, along with descriptions can help show you what clean eating looks like. You can find my daily pictures here: http://recipeforfitness.com/todays_cooler.html

Counting down!! 58 Days until we set sail... which means 57 days until we leave ;-) Time to start making the tweaks. If you follow my daily coolers, you might notice some subtle changes to their contents. The foods are pretty much the same, but portions and proportions are undergoing an adjustment. I'm increasing my fat, and reducing my carbs, and switching them up & when I have them. Since the figure competition, I've been in maintenance mode, but with vacation headed my way I'm going to do everything I can to be ready for it.

Shoulder aside, my food is one thing I have 100% control over, and I'm going to use that to my advantage ;-)

What kind of dietary tweaks am I making? You'll see less greek yogurt (boo!), and more protein pudding (yay!). Less granola, more veggies. Less fruit, more veggies. About the same protein, maybe smaller portions. Beginning next week, no evening starchy carb unless it's following exercise/workout. My fats are also changing, typically I put 2 Tbsp ground flax in my oatmeal - that's now 1 Tbsp, with more fat throughout the day. Minor changes make big differences. I doubt very much I'll need to reduce my calories, but will monitor my progress and do it if I need to.

Today is the first day I've swapped out my beloved greek yogurt for protein pudding - I had thought it would be a wrench - I really, really love greek yogurt, lol! But I had forgotten how much I love my protein pudding! Ha! Yum!

Protein pudding is easy to make, but the results will depend on your brand of protein powder. You might remember during my show prep when I tested a variety of powders in the Protein Pudding Taste-Off. I later tested other brands, including Champion. While none resulted in the thick creamy pudding the Beverly powder does, the Champion was by far the best runner up - creating a thick fudgy mixture that will hit any chocolate craving ;-) It's like licking fudge sauce from a spoon. Seriously! With whatever protein powder you use, the trick is to only add liquid until your mixture turns thick, then chill it several hours. However, I must point out something... if you do not like the way your protein powder tastes, you will not like it in a protein powder pudding. Lol. (and really, if you don't like the way your powder tastes, get a new one! Life's too short to eat sucky food!)

If you're using the Beverly International UMP, this is my recipe, with any other powder, remember to add only enough liquid to thicken it, then blend well and chill.

Blend well (I use a Magic Bullet) until smooth. Pour into container and chill several hours.

If you're not already following my daily cooler, you might check it out. I find, in my experience, that seeing helps me understand. The photos, along with descriptions can help show you what clean eating looks like. You can find my daily pictures here: http://recipeforfitness.com/todays_cooler.html

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

We're finishing up the Case Study - and if you haven't checked out the amazing women of Group 1, you absolutely should! http://recipeforfitness.com/transformation.html It's incredible what they've done in a short time (and through the holidays!!). Seriously! Wow!!

As you know, I'm headed to the doctor this friday to move toward surgery. My shoulder is shot. I can't use that arm for much. Pffft. Stupid joint. Getting ready for this appointment has been hard for me, emotionally and mentally. I'm still struggling to put away my previous dreams and goals, and form new ones. One big question I have is What is my new ideal body? I just don't know. The physique of a figure competitor (not stage-ready, but normal lifestyle) has been what I've worked toward - and now... my limitations won't allow the work that builds and maintains that physique, so what do I strive for? I don't have an answer, yet. But I will.

I will. And I'll be ok with it. In fact, I'll be better than ok, I will THRIVE. The limitations of my body do not, and can not change who I am inside. (But man-oh-man, I can't wait to get this shoulder taken care of!).

We're finishing up the Case Study - and if you haven't checked out the amazing women of Group 1, you absolutely should! http://recipeforfitness.com/transformation.html It's incredible what they've done in a short time (and through the holidays!!). Seriously! Wow!!

As you know, I'm headed to the doctor this friday to move toward surgery. My shoulder is shot. I can't use that arm for much. Pffft. Stupid joint. Getting ready for this appointment has been hard for me, emotionally and mentally. I'm still struggling to put away my previous dreams and goals, and form new ones. One big question I have is What is my new ideal body? I just don't know. The physique of a figure competitor (not stage-ready, but normal lifestyle) has been what I've worked toward - and now... my limitations won't allow the work that builds and maintains that physique, so what do I strive for? I don't have an answer, yet. But I will.

I will. And I'll be ok with it. In fact, I'll be better than ok, I will THRIVE. The limitations of my body do not, and can not change who I am inside. (But man-oh-man, I can't wait to get this shoulder taken care of!).

We're finishing up the Case Study - and if you haven't checked out the amazing women of Group 1, you absolutely should! http://recipeforfitness.com/transformation.html It's incredible what they've done in a short time (and through the holidays!!). Seriously! Wow!!

As you know, I'm headed to the doctor this friday to move toward surgery. My shoulder is shot. I can't use that arm for much. Pffft. Stupid joint. Getting ready for this appointment has been hard for me, emotionally and mentally. I'm still struggling to put away my previous dreams and goals, and form new ones. One big question I have is What is my new ideal body? I just don't know. The physique of a figure competitor (not stage-ready, but normal lifestyle) has been what I've worked toward - and now... my limitations won't allow the work that builds and maintains that physique, so what do I strive for? I don't have an answer, yet. But I will.

I will. And I'll be ok with it. In fact, I'll be better than ok, I will THRIVE. The limitations of my body do not, and can not change who I am inside. (But man-oh-man, I can't wait to get this shoulder taken care of!).

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

I adore stuffed peppers but the standard recipes are high carb (they add breadcrumbs, rice, quinoa or black beans) and I need low-carb. Now, if you do have room for carbs, go for it and add them in! This is a tasty dish when you add those starchy carbs, thankfully though, it's just as tasty without ;-) During competition prep, this was one of my favorite recipes!

Split the meat mixture between the peppers, stuffing firmly. If you have leftover meat, no worries... sprinkle it on a salad or in a wrap, or in scrambled eggs :-)

Top each with 1 tbsp crumbled feta.

Place peppers in individual steamer bags (depending on the size of the peppers, sometimes you can fit 2, sometimes only 1), standing them up with their open tops on the "cook this side up" side of the bag.

Refrigerate

When ready to cook, place bag in microwave and cook for 4 1/2 minutes. Allow to rest in the bag for an additional minute. Serve!

NOTES:*Lean Ground Beef - I use 97% when it's on sale, but let's face it, it's a lousy economy. If money's tight, I buy the cheap beef, cook it then drain it and rinse with hot water to remove the excess fat, then return to the skillet, add seasoning and proceed with recipe. You can substitute any other ground meat (bison, turkey, chicken, etc).

I adore stuffed peppers but the standard recipes are high carb (they add breadcrumbs, rice, quinoa or black beans) and I need low-carb. Now, if you do have room for carbs, go for it and add them in! This is a tasty dish when you add those starchy carbs, thankfully though, it's just as tasty without ;-) During competition prep, this was one of my favorite recipes!

Split the meat mixture between the peppers, stuffing firmly. If you have leftover meat, no worries... sprinkle it on a salad or in a wrap, or in scrambled eggs :-)

Top each with 1 tbsp crumbled feta.

Place peppers in individual steamer bags (depending on the size of the peppers, sometimes you can fit 2, sometimes only 1), standing them up with their open tops on the "cook this side up" side of the bag.

Refrigerate

When ready to cook, place bag in microwave and cook for 4 1/2 minutes. Allow to rest in the bag for an additional minute. Serve!

NOTES:*Lean Ground Beef - I use 97% when it's on sale, but let's face it, it's a lousy economy. If money's tight, I buy the cheap beef, cook it then drain it and rinse with hot water to remove the excess fat, then return to the skillet, add seasoning and proceed with recipe. You can substitute any other ground meat (bison, turkey, chicken, etc).

I adore stuffed peppers but the standard recipes are high carb (they add breadcrumbs, rice, quinoa or black beans) and I need low-carb. Now, if you do have room for carbs, go for it and add them in! This is a tasty dish when you add those starchy carbs, thankfully though, it's just as tasty without ;-) During competition prep, this was one of my favorite recipes!

Split the meat mixture between the peppers, stuffing firmly. If you have leftover meat, no worries... sprinkle it on a salad or in a wrap, or in scrambled eggs :-)

Top each with 1 tbsp crumbled feta.

Place peppers in individual steamer bags (depending on the size of the peppers, sometimes you can fit 2, sometimes only 1), standing them up with their open tops on the "cook this side up" side of the bag.

Refrigerate

When ready to cook, place bag in microwave and cook for 4 1/2 minutes. Allow to rest in the bag for an additional minute. Serve!

NOTES:*Lean Ground Beef - I use 97% when it's on sale, but let's face it, it's a lousy economy. If money's tight, I buy the cheap beef, cook it then drain it and rinse with hot water to remove the excess fat, then return to the skillet, add seasoning and proceed with recipe. You can substitute any other ground meat (bison, turkey, chicken, etc).

Monday, February 6, 2012

Though there were a few scheduling glitches, I managed to get done my laundry, food prep and still hit the Superbowl party. Lol! I did my grocery shopping Saturday, then Sunday morning got my prep done, then off to the party. Here's what I did...

Then there were the veggies... This week, I did my asparagus steamers, then just mixed up all the rest.

Have I mentioned how much I love finding clean products that save me time? ;-) Here's some sausage and pasta sauce, with our family favorite - quinoa pasta for a weekday meal this week.

As usual, I made a bunch of chicken. I sliced it up and put it in a big baggie for sandwiches, wraps, and anything else we need. For myself, I just toss the amount I need in a baggie and go.

Once all my prep was done, it was time to gather the supplies for the Super Bowl party... I grabbed up some of my favorite products, discovered some new favorites and with my 3-pot crockpot, away we went... here are some of the treats we enjoyed...

meatballs in the crockpot - heck yeah!

More clean meatballs - didn't even need sauce! Tasty!

Add bbq sauce and yummage ensues!

Every one of those products is clean. What's my point? Ready-made food isn't the devil. You can find clean & wholesome products (sometimes not easily, lol, but they are out there!).

And, while we're talking super-bowl... was anyone else as disappointed as I was in the commercials? The Volkswagen commercial with the Star Wars barking dogs was better than the ones that aired! For someone who's not much into football, that was a bummer. Lol!

Though there were a few scheduling glitches, I managed to get done my laundry, food prep and still hit the Superbowl party. Lol! I did my grocery shopping Saturday, then Sunday morning got my prep done, then off to the party. Here's what I did...

Then there were the veggies... This week, I did my asparagus steamers, then just mixed up all the rest.

Have I mentioned how much I love finding clean products that save me time? ;-) Here's some sausage and pasta sauce, with our family favorite - quinoa pasta for a weekday meal this week.

As usual, I made a bunch of chicken. I sliced it up and put it in a big baggie for sandwiches, wraps, and anything else we need. For myself, I just toss the amount I need in a baggie and go.

Once all my prep was done, it was time to gather the supplies for the Super Bowl party... I grabbed up some of my favorite products, discovered some new favorites and with my 3-pot crockpot, away we went... here are some of the treats we enjoyed...

meatballs in the crockpot - heck yeah!

More clean meatballs - didn't even need sauce! Tasty!

Add bbq sauce and yummage ensues!

Every one of those products is clean. What's my point? Ready-made food isn't the devil. You can find clean & wholesome products (sometimes not easily, lol, but they are out there!).

And, while we're talking super-bowl... was anyone else as disappointed as I was in the commercials? The Volkswagen commercial with the Star Wars barking dogs was better than the ones that aired! For someone who's not much into football, that was a bummer. Lol!

Though there were a few scheduling glitches, I managed to get done my laundry, food prep and still hit the Superbowl party. Lol! I did my grocery shopping Saturday, then Sunday morning got my prep done, then off to the party. Here's what I did...

Then there were the veggies... This week, I did my asparagus steamers, then just mixed up all the rest.

Have I mentioned how much I love finding clean products that save me time? ;-) Here's some sausage and pasta sauce, with our family favorite - quinoa pasta for a weekday meal this week.

As usual, I made a bunch of chicken. I sliced it up and put it in a big baggie for sandwiches, wraps, and anything else we need. For myself, I just toss the amount I need in a baggie and go.

Once all my prep was done, it was time to gather the supplies for the Super Bowl party... I grabbed up some of my favorite products, discovered some new favorites and with my 3-pot crockpot, away we went... here are some of the treats we enjoyed...

meatballs in the crockpot - heck yeah!

More clean meatballs - didn't even need sauce! Tasty!

Add bbq sauce and yummage ensues!

Every one of those products is clean. What's my point? Ready-made food isn't the devil. You can find clean & wholesome products (sometimes not easily, lol, but they are out there!).

And, while we're talking super-bowl... was anyone else as disappointed as I was in the commercials? The Volkswagen commercial with the Star Wars barking dogs was better than the ones that aired! For someone who's not much into football, that was a bummer. Lol!

Thursday, February 2, 2012

Ahh rats! Ya'll know how much I LOVE my grapefruit. I mean, seriously, LOVE. This morning, I ate my oatmeal (with protein powder, flax, cinnamon and blueberries), then reached for my grapefruit. I've been kinda miffed lately that they're so small (remember the one that was as big as my head? THAT was a grapefruit!), but at least I can eat a whole one when they're little like this. So I began to peel... and found this:

BOOOOOOO!!! Major grapefruit fail! No saving it, and frankly it wigged me out a bit. I am sans-grapefruit this morning - wanna guess how happy I am about it? LOL! (remember, my daily coolers are posted here: http://recipeforfitness.com/todays_cooler.html)

In other news, my daughter has been back in school the last two days, recovering well, and today she texted me to say, "My stomach feels so much better! Barely hurts and looks good!". She's been a little concerned about her belly-button incision and the swelling there, despite being told it's normal ;-) Personally, I have to say I feel like I've got my daughter back! She's got a bounce in her step, she's smiley and bubbly... she's my Bethany! Yay!!!!!! She hasn't been sick once since surgery, and is obviously better. I'm thrilled! And relieved! Woot!

My own battle continues with my defective shoulder. What is it about turning 40? Yeesh!! I go back to the doctor on the 10th, and will have a better idea of a timeline. It's getting worse during this enforced rest, so surgery is definitely in my near future - the question is ... do I have surgery before or after my cruise? I can't get much info on the recovery until I know better what they'll be doing. The 10th can't come soon enough! I want answers! Lol. Yeah, patience is not MY virtue.

I've got to get back to work. And I've got to get over my grapefruit-anger. Hahahaa! Happy Thursday!

Ahh rats! Ya'll know how much I LOVE my grapefruit. I mean, seriously, LOVE. This morning, I ate my oatmeal (with protein powder, flax, cinnamon and blueberries), then reached for my grapefruit. I've been kinda miffed lately that they're so small (remember the one that was as big as my head? THAT was a grapefruit!), but at least I can eat a whole one when they're little like this. So I began to peel... and found this:

BOOOOOOO!!! Major grapefruit fail! No saving it, and frankly it wigged me out a bit. I am sans-grapefruit this morning - wanna guess how happy I am about it? LOL! (remember, my daily coolers are posted here: http://recipeforfitness.com/todays_cooler.html)

In other news, my daughter has been back in school the last two days, recovering well, and today she texted me to say, "My stomach feels so much better! Barely hurts and looks good!". She's been a little concerned about her belly-button incision and the swelling there, despite being told it's normal ;-) Personally, I have to say I feel like I've got my daughter back! She's got a bounce in her step, she's smiley and bubbly... she's my Bethany! Yay!!!!!! She hasn't been sick once since surgery, and is obviously better. I'm thrilled! And relieved! Woot!

My own battle continues with my defective shoulder. What is it about turning 40? Yeesh!! I go back to the doctor on the 10th, and will have a better idea of a timeline. It's getting worse during this enforced rest, so surgery is definitely in my near future - the question is ... do I have surgery before or after my cruise? I can't get much info on the recovery until I know better what they'll be doing. The 10th can't come soon enough! I want answers! Lol. Yeah, patience is not MY virtue.

I've got to get back to work. And I've got to get over my grapefruit-anger. Hahahaa! Happy Thursday!

Ahh rats! Ya'll know how much I LOVE my grapefruit. I mean, seriously, LOVE. This morning, I ate my oatmeal (with protein powder, flax, cinnamon and blueberries), then reached for my grapefruit. I've been kinda miffed lately that they're so small (remember the one that was as big as my head? THAT was a grapefruit!), but at least I can eat a whole one when they're little like this. So I began to peel... and found this:

BOOOOOOO!!! Major grapefruit fail! No saving it, and frankly it wigged me out a bit. I am sans-grapefruit this morning - wanna guess how happy I am about it? LOL! (remember, my daily coolers are posted here: http://recipeforfitness.com/todays_cooler.html)

In other news, my daughter has been back in school the last two days, recovering well, and today she texted me to say, "My stomach feels so much better! Barely hurts and looks good!". She's been a little concerned about her belly-button incision and the swelling there, despite being told it's normal ;-) Personally, I have to say I feel like I've got my daughter back! She's got a bounce in her step, she's smiley and bubbly... she's my Bethany! Yay!!!!!! She hasn't been sick once since surgery, and is obviously better. I'm thrilled! And relieved! Woot!

My own battle continues with my defective shoulder. What is it about turning 40? Yeesh!! I go back to the doctor on the 10th, and will have a better idea of a timeline. It's getting worse during this enforced rest, so surgery is definitely in my near future - the question is ... do I have surgery before or after my cruise? I can't get much info on the recovery until I know better what they'll be doing. The 10th can't come soon enough! I want answers! Lol. Yeah, patience is not MY virtue.

I've got to get back to work. And I've got to get over my grapefruit-anger. Hahahaa! Happy Thursday!